Reece, Logan and Rick Merrill ready to help you at our Free Shred Event.
FREE Shred Event!
You are invited to attend our FREE Shred and Food Drive Event on Monday, January 9th 2023 from 1 pm to 3 pm.
We have scheduled the Shred Event in January, to help people who are cleaning and purging their year end documents.
Community members are welcome to join us at Merrill Law on Colby to destroy documents containing sensitive and personal information. The office is getting new siding installed, so it is currently a yellow color.
The Free Shred Event will be held in the alley behind our office at 3625 Colby Ave, Everett, WA 98201.
To Shred Or Not To Shred? The Answer Is to Shred, for Free.
That’s right, there is no cost to bring your documents to The Law Office Of Rick H. Merrill, where office employees will be onsite to help community members carry your boxes of documents to shred.
Documents will be destroyed by Proshred, a professional document destruction service with a mobile shredding unit and you can be sure that your documents will be shredded before the truck leaves our parking lot!
We will be accepting Documents to be shred from 1 pm to 3 pm or until the truck is full. We do not have a limit for the number of boxes each person may bring.
Your donations filled this minivan to the brim at our last event.
Donate Non-Perishable Food Items.
Please bring any non-perishable food to donate. We love to load a car with donations of non-perishable food for the Food Bank.
It is always a joy to deliver these generous donations to support our local food banks. They are truly appreciative for your kindness.
Donations of pet food and supplies, will be donated to Beck’s Place in Monroe. This is a local organization that helps people and pets in need in a variety of ways.
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We are happy to announce the Dream Scholarship Winner for 2022. First we will share a little bit of information about this award.
The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.
Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.
Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to explain their dream.
Congratulations to our 2022 Dream Scholarship Winner.
Rebecka Goranson
Rebecka Goranson, who dreams of being a Speech and Language Disorder Pathologist.
I will be graduating high school with my Associate’s degree, then I plan to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. After completing my Bachelor’s, I plan to get my Master’s degree in Speech Pathology. It’s always been a personal goal in my career to help other people.
I attended speech therapy in early elementary school and having these first-hand experiences led me to discover my passion. Seeing for myself what a speech pathologist does, and how much of a positive impact they make in people’s lives was a definite addition to my passion.
Another factor that guided me to this major is frequently babysitting a boy with severe autism, which causes him to be mostly nonverbal. When I first started taking care of him it was frustrating not being able to understand what he needed or what he was asking for. And I’m certain it’s just as frustrating for him, his family, and other people, such as his teachers.
It would be fulfilling for me to become a speech pathologist due to the rewards (and challenges) of working with individuals and their families to discover the most efficient way that they could communicate with families and others.
Follow along with Merrill Law
To see other opportunities that are available to help in our local community. We are accepting nominations for the Merrill Law Library and planning a Shred Event and Food Drive in January 2023.
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Fireworks offenses are a criminal charge. These come with the possibility of monetary penalties and time spent in jail.
The most common fireworks offenses are unlawful possession of fireworks and the unlawful discharge or use of fireworks.
Possession Fireworks
The local fireworks retailers usually carry fireworks that are classified as “Consumer Fireworks”. The list of consumer fireworks is published yearly by the State Fire Marshall. You will find It posted at the sales stands.
Officers will use the quantity of fireworks in your possession, as the measurement that determines if you have violated the law.
You may be charged with a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction comes with a 90 days maximum penalty in jail and a $1000.00 fine. A gross misdemeanor conviction comes with a 364 days maximum penalty in jail and a $500.00 fine.
Illegal Fireworks
Include Firecrackers, rockets, M-80’s, dynamite, Sky Lanterns and all homemade fireworks and others that do not follow the definition of “Consumer Fireworks” .
Unlawful Discharge or Use of Fireworks
It is illegal for anyone to discharge or use fireworks that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to someone or damage to someone else’s property. This violation is a gross misdemeanor.
Discharge of fireworks have approved dates, times and locations. Maps and instructions are available on the County Websites. You will want to verify that you will be lighting your fireworks in an approved location. You can look at the local rules at the following links.
Merrill Law is offering a $1500 scholarship to all levels of college, trade or high school students who are in pursuit of a dream, students who are striving for something more, students trying to find a way to make a difference, students.
When I Grow Up, I want to be…
When listening to students, we hear that phrase said with so much hope, and excitement. We know that they can grow up to be anything they desire to be and it starts with a dream.
Picture the Dream.
Send us your creative digital photo or image that shares your Dream. Perhaps it represents the past, present or the future of your dream.
This digital photo or image will need to have caption that explain:
Who… inspired you
What… steps are you taking or planning to make it come true
When… was this, will it be, or will it make the most difference
Why… is your dream important to you
How… did you come to this schooling goal
Call it an Inspiration, Call it a Dream.
This Scholarship will be awarded to a college student or high-school senior student.
Award Amount.
The Scholarship is $1,500.00 for one student.
We want to help you catch that Dream.
Instructions for Applicants
Eligibility Criteria
Student enrolled in an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree or graduate level program, trade school or a high school senior.
Must be a Washington State resident.
Complete the student information form, submit a digital photo or image and short caption (200 word limit) sharing the students dream.
Submission Details
Online Application and Agreement Form.
Description of Dream (Limited to 10 words)
Digital Photo or Image that shares your life’s dream.
Caption or short description (Limited to 200 words).
The 2022 Applications are Due
Application must be submitted by 12:00 pm PST on June 17th 2022.
The winner will be announced after July 15th 2022 on www.MerrillLaw.com, Facebook, Twitter and Google.
Click Here for Complete Information and Application.
We hope to see your application for the 2022 Merrill Law Dream Scholarship.
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Each year the sales of Girl Scout cookies provide funds for great learning adventures, and other opportunities for girls.
These Girl Scouts are learning a variety of valuable life skills while they are planning, setting up their sales pages, contacting the customers, delivering and reporting their sales of these delightful morsels.
The Girls Scouts did a terrific job of adjusting to sales with Covid restrictions.
Cookies Fun and Goals
This year our girls came from Troops located in Arlington, Granite Falls, Edmonds, Everett, Maltby and Mill Creek.
We asked what their Favorite Girl Scout activities were and their answers included:
The Mountain Shadows camp, which is a two night trip with sing-alongs, crafts and sports. Going on field trips to the pumpkin patch, zoo and the fire station. Earning badges, making ice cream, canoeing, animal tracking and other things like that.
But at the heart of the matter, these Girl Scouts loved Camp, Camping, Camping! And more Camping!!
Our Girl Scouts Fundraising goals for this year.
Raising money to donate Build A Bears for kids in the hospital.
Fundraising for camping and community service projects!
Saving our money for a big trip in a couple of years.
We are also sending cookies to the troops overseas.
We are happy to help these Girl Scouts meet their goals and pursue their dreams.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Congratulations to the 2022 April Winner Merrill Law Library Classroom!
Our 2022 April Winner is Stevie Peretti’s 2nd Grade Class of Horizon Elementary in the Mukilteo School District.
I am Logan Merrill with Merrill Law. I am Reece Merrill with Merrill Law. Its time to pick a winner for the Merrill Law Library. Each winner gets a set of books for the classroom as well one book for each student to take home.
With that I will spin and we will see who the winner is. Congratulations Stevie Peretti. We will contact you on how to get the books to your students.
Reece and Logan Merrill
Each Student will receive a brand new book to keep.
The Classroom will get a selection of books to keep and use in future years.
You can nominate a classroom for our next drawing.
We want to promote reading for the Elementary Students of Snohomish County.
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Click Here to read more of our Local Community Series.
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Something Sponsored stopped in at SnoTown Espresso to share a little cheer.
We sponsored an hour of Coffee and we hope that everyone enjoyed their morning surprise.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Emily Fountain and Reece Merrill with the box of books.
Congratulations to the 2022 January Winner Merrill Law Library Classroom!
Our 2022 January Winner is Emily Fountain’s 4th Grade Class of Skyline Elementary in the Lake Stevens School District.
Hello, I am Reece Merrill with Merrill Law. I am Logan Merrill. It is that special time of year again. Time to pick a winner of the Merrill Law Library. With that I will spin and we will see who the lucky winner is.
Congratulations to Emily Fountain. Every child in your class will be getting a book and you will also be getting a set of books for your classroom.
Reece, Logan and Rick Merrill
Each Student will receive a brand new book to keep.
The Classroom will get a selection of books to keep and use in future years.
Thank you SO much!!! These books were a wonderful addition to my classroom library. My students were THRILLED to take a book home with them. Thank you for supporting our community!
You can nominate a classroom for our next drawing.
We want to promote reading for the Elementary Students of Snohomish County.
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
The sales of Girl Scout cookies provide funds for great learning adventures, and other opportunities for girls. Last year our Girls Scouts were earning money to keep having fun learning, Girl Scout camp, and a trip to Disneyland.
In addition these Girl Scouts are learning a variety of valuable life skills while they are setting up, selling and reporting their sales of these delightful morsels.
For the past several years Merrill Law has been supporting this Girls Scout Cookie sales. We purchase 5 boxes of delicious cookies from10 Girl Scouts.
Cookies Anyone…
All of our applications for 2022 have been completed. We will be submitting the cookie orders soon.
Please follow the directions to allow for us to safely order and support the Girl Scouts.
Please Complete this Application so that we can order from you.
We will place our order from the first 10 Girl Scouts to submit this request.
We like to share a photo of the girls who stopped by the office with cookies to sell to Rick.
You can decide if your parent will email a photo to us, or if we will stage a no contact photo of the delivery on our porch.
We are looking forward to enjoying these delightful morsels.
If you are craving some cookies, look up the Girl Scout Find Cookiesto pre order your cookies
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Thank you to everyone who made the Free Shred Event 2022 and Food Drive a Success. We were able to fill the truck completely this year.
The ProShred truck was late to arrive. They were over scheduled due to the unexpected loss of one of their trucks in a recent fire. However as soon as the truck arrived all of the boxes and bags that were dropped off were shred.
Free Shred Event 2022 Food Drive Results
We are happy to say that we filled a mini van with about 500 pounds of food donations and $300 dollars that were donated for the food bank.
We look forward to another amazing Event in January 2023
Do You Want To Hear More From Merrill Law?
Check out our other Blogs for more information on an assortment of subjects.
You can connect with us on social media at any of the networks below.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs is also referred to as a DUI or sometimes DWI.
The Adult DUI
The charge for an adult is DUI.
A Driving Under the Influence is a gross misdemeanor, which has a maximum of 364 days in jail and additional court penalties.
Requires a blood alcohol content of .08 or,
5 nanograms or higher for Driving under the influence of Marijuana or,
In the alternative, be under the influence of Drugs or Alcohol.
Underage DUI
The charge for someone under the age of 21 is Driver Under Twenty-One consuming alcohol or marijuana and is operating or being in physical control of a motor vehicle.
An Underage DUI is a misdemeanor, which has a maximum of 90 days in jail and additional court penalties.
For a minor the blood alcohol content is .02.
Driving Under the Influence is a serious crime, with serious penalties for you.
You could be arrested.
Face a Driver’s license suspension.
You will have assorted Court hearings including an Arraignment, Pre-Trial hearings, Trial, Sentencing.
Sentencing can include Jail, Fines, Scram Bracelet, Drug and Alcohol Evaluation, Treatment, Ignition Interlock, SR 22 filing Insurance.
In the long term
You may need to have background checks done, that will bring this back to the surface years from now.
Some Countries, including Canada, do not allow you to enter if you have been convicted of a DUI.
Drinking? Driving? Don’t!
If you are drinking and travelling, plan to have a designated driver, call a friend, call a cab, call a tow truck, or Stay.
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
What happens when you are arrested for a DUI in Washington State.
What happens when you are arrested for DUI
I am going to talk about what happens when you are arrested for a DUI in Washington State. Hello, I am Reece Merrill with Merrill Law.
Two Processes
If you get arrested for a DUI in Washington State, there are two processes going on. One is the administrative process with your license, which will be governed by the DOL (Department of License). The second process is governed by the Courts and that determines any kind of criminal punishment, aside from a license consequence, potentially going jail although hopefully not.
Department of License
Now the process with the DOL, the DOL will move much faster than the courts. The courts have 2 years to file any case against you as a result. The DOL will move much quicker. You will have 5 business days to request a hearing for the administrative process of suspending your license. If you get arrested for a DUI it is very important that you talk to an attorney about that DOL hearing fairly quickly. And the strategy you want to take there whether or not you want to request it or get the restricted license. But we should be able to help you keep driving in some way.
The Court
So for the Court side, at some point within the two years from the date of the violation, the date you have for your arrest or had contact with Law Enforcement. They will schedule your first court appearance which is called the Arraignment. At the arraignment it is time to enter a plea. You will want to be pleading not guilty. The court will also set some conditions of release. The basic conditions for a DUI that the court will set at the arraignment will be don’t commit any criminal law violations while the case is pending. Don’t drive without a valid license and insurance. Don’t get another DUI. And depending on the jurisdiction there might be an Ignition Interlock requirement. That is going to be more dependent on your individual criminal history as well as the jurisdiction that the case is in.
At that arraignment date they will set Pretrial hearings. Which are just status hearings to let the court know if you are ready to resolve the case or ready to tell the court that you are ready for Trial and then set for a Trial date. Generally at that first hearing most people won’t know whether or not they want to go to Trial. So there will probably be multiple court dates.
After the court sets the conditions, they are also going to set Pretrial court dates at the first hearing, the arraignment. The Pretrial hearings are for letting the courts know the status of the case. Either we want to declare that we are ready for trial, we want to ask for more time to investigate and negotiate the case, or we have some kind of resolution that everyone can be happy with. So it is possible that the case gets resolved at the first Pretrial hearing, but it is not outside of the ordinary that there would be multiple Pretrial hearings. The reason for that is to give the attorney more time to investigate and negotiate the case. Potentially there are some affirmative conditions that the State wants done before the case can be resolved. And things of that nature.
What happens when you are arrested for DUI
That is the basic outline of the process, both with DOL and with the Courts.
Now anytime you are arrested with a DUI it is important that you get in touch with an attorney.
Want to hear more from us…
There are many ways an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney can fight for you.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
The court legal system can be very intimidating and even scary if you are not familiar with how the court system conducts business.
The criminal court process may begin within a few days or many months after the date of arrest.
The criminal court for your case begins when:
The arresting officer provides you with a court date and time
A notice of hearing mailed to you from the court.
Arraignment
An arraignment is the first hearing. The reason for an arraignment is for you to understand what you are being charged with. The arraignment is where you would enter your plea of “not guilty”.
A Private Attorney can enter your plea and waive your appearance for the arraignment if you are charged with a misdemeanor.
However a waiver of arraignment is not allowed and you are required to attend the hearing if you are charged with:
DUI
Physical Control
Domestic Violence.
When the plea is entered the judge will determine if you can be released .
The judge will consider:
Your criminal history.
Flight risk.
Your alleged breath alcohol level at the time of arrest if charged with DUI.
If you have made an effort to show the court that you are not a danger to the community.
If you have failed to appear for other cases.
The judge may impose conditions of release or have bail set for your release.
If you are being charged with a DUI the judge might release you with conditions that may include:
Electronic home monitoring (EHM),
Restrictions on consumption of alcohol,
Installation of an ignition interlock device (IIL)
Alcohol monitoring ankle bracelet also known as a SCRAM bracelet.
If you are being charged with a Domestic Violence crime the judge may impose:
A no contact order
No possession of firearms.
Pre-Trial Hearing or Readiness Hearing
The Pre-Trial or readiness hearing is where the prosecution and the defense inform the court of their progress, negotiations, or if the case is ready for trial.
Your case may be continued for additional readiness hearings based on:
courtroom availability,
additional evidence discovery,
continued negotiation, or
witness availability issues.
Resolutions are possible at readiness hearings, depending on the negotiation with the prosecutor.
Motion Hearings
Motion hearings are an opportunity for Legal motions to be presented. These motions may be to prevent your case from going to trial or relate to other needs.
Trial
If a resolution is not reached between the prosecutor and your attorney, then your case will be set for trial.
You may choose between a bench trial or a jury trial.
A bench trial allows the judge to be the sole person deciding if you are guilty or not guilty of the charges.
A jury trial will consist of 6 people (if charged with a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor) or 12 people (if charged with a felony).
These people are randomly selected from the community, and will make the decision if you are guilty or not guilty of the charges.
Sentencing
Sentencing is addressed after a finding of guilt has been decided for your case.
Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor regarding a sentence recommendation
Often times both parties will have reached an agreed sentence recommendation that the prosecutor will present to the judge.
The judge has the authority to impose the sentence that he or she believes is appropriate for the crime.
This sentence may include fines, jail, restitution, evaluation, treatment, probation or other steps.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
You have been out for some fun, enjoying a few alcoholic beverages. You grab your keys, hop into the driver’s seat and get on the road.
Soon you notice the red and blue lights flashing in your rear view mirror. Now you realize that you could be charged with a DUI.
If you have committed a traffic infraction, an officer will pull you over.
The officer will notice if there is an odor of alcohol or drugs from the car. He will look to see if your eyes are glassy or bloodshot. He will observe if your speech is slurred and your mannerisms seem to be impaired.
The Field Sobriety Test
With a reasonable suspicion of drunk driving, the officer will ask you to step out of the car and complete a field sobriety test.
A field sobriety test is a series of 3 tests that will be administered by an officer to determine the impairment of the driver and establish probable cause for arrest.
Test one is the horizontal gaze nystagmus test
The officer will watch the driver’s eyes, as the driver follows a slowly moving object. This is usually done with a writing utensil or a small flashlight.
Test two is the walk and turn test.
This requires the driver to listen, follow instructions, while performing the simple physical movements. The driver will be asked to take nine steps, heel-to-toe along a straight line, and then turn on one foot and return to the starting position walking along the same straight line heel-to-toe.
Test three is the one-leg stand test.
The driver will be asked to stand with one foot approximately six inches off of the ground and then will be directed to count aloud by thousands until the officer directs the driver to place the foot down.
The officer will be looking for indicators of impairment, which include swaying while balancing, use of the arms for balance, hopping to help maintain balance, and placing the foot down for balance.
Breath Test
The officer may also ask you to take a portable breath test to measure your blood alcohol content.
Should you Take the Test
It is important that you speak with an attorney prior to taking any type of test to determine your ability to drive.
The officer may place you under arrest and you may be taken to jail if you refuse to take the tests.
Knowing your Rights
The arresting officer is required to notify you of your right to talk to an attorney, within a reasonable amount of time.
It is important that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible to help determine which course of action you should take to help with your situation.
What are the Consequences?
Receiving a DUI is a serious offense and may lead to time in jail, suspension of your license, probation and many other requirements or penalties.
We know that DUIs can be a life changing event but it is not the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
We are here to have a conversation about DUI. It is a Criminal charge that has multiple agencies involved in the process. Here are some of the important things to know.
DUI, DOL, Courts, What Does it all mean?
There are 2 parts to a DUI. Administrative Loss of License through the Department of License and Criminal charges through the courts. Each DUI will have various factors that need to be addressed to resolve the case.
DOL is the Department of License.
The administrative hearing is held to determine if your case will require an administrative loss of license. The request for this hearing must be filed with in 7 days. Talk with an attorney to determine if an administrative hearing is the best step for you.
Court Criminal Case.
Each DUI that is charged will work its way through the court to come to a resolution of the criminal charges.
The Time Lines.
The time lines vary for each case and the Entity who is bringing the charges. While it can be hard to wait, there is simply a lot of documentation and steps required to file and begin each case.
While quick and easy is nice in regards to stressful situations, we have found that DUI cases are intricate and involved to process correctly. We will work with you to come to a resolution for the case.
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Keeping your license after a DUI includes submitting an application for an Ignition Interlock License (IIL) is a Restricted Driver’s License.
If approved by the Department of Licensing, a IIL will allow you to drive a vehicle while your current license is suspended or revoked for a drug or alcohol-related driving offense.
To be eligible, your driving record must show all of the following:
An arrest or conviction of any of the following:
DUI or Physical Control involving drugs or alcohol
Reckless Driving
Vehicular Assault involving drugs or alcohol
Vehicular Homicide involving drugs or alcohol
You have an unexpired WA driver license or a valid out of state driver license
Your current suspension or revocation doesn’t include:
Minor in Possession, or
Habitual Traffic Offender (Suspended 1st degree)
Ignition Interlock License Application
Before the Washington State Department of Licensing will consider your application for an ignition interlock license you must complete the following steps.
1. Install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
There are several ignition interlock device locations in Washington State, a general internet search should help you find one near you.
Choose an installer that is approved by the Washington State Patrol.
The ignition interlock installer will send proof of installation to the Department of Licensing.
Fees vary depending on the installation location you select. They may include an installation fee, a monthly fee for the device to be maintained in your vehicle, required monthly calibration of the ignition interlock device.
2. Provide proof of financial responsibility to Washington State.
Obtain a Certificate of Insurance, commonly known as SR-22 insurance.
The auto insurance company will submit the SR-22 filing to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
The SR-22 filing may take up to 10 business days to be processed.
3. Submit a Restricted Driver License Application.
This application can be found at https://www.dol.wa.gov/ under the ignition interlock driver’s license page.
Mail the completed application and the required $100.00 application fee to the Washington State Department of Licensing restricted licensing department.
If the Washington State Department of Licensing does not receive all documents that are required with your application within 30 days, they will deny your application.
What Happens Next?
Your application for the ignition interlock license will be reviewed by the Department of Licensing when all three steps are complete.
If the Department of Licensing approves your application, they will mail or email your ignition interlock license when your license suspension begins.
Things to Know About an Ignition Interlock license
It is valid only in Washington State.
It is required for the entire time your license is suspended.
You will be required to maintain ignition interlock devices on all the vehicles you drive.
Exceptions may exist for employer owned vehicles.
Keeping Your License After A DUI
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
Your license when you get a DUI is often a big concern for people.
When you have a DUI there are 2 separate legal processes to be handled.
One is the Criminal side of the DUI that is addressed by the presiding Court.
The other is the Administrative Hearing by the Department of Licensing.
The arresting officer will file the DUI report as required to address these two legal steps.
How Long is my License Good For?
The suspension of your driver’s license will begin 30 days from the date of your DUI arrest.
Department of Licensing Administrative Hearing
You have 7 days, from the date of the arrest, to request a hearing with the Department of Licensing to contest the suspension.
This hearing will be held by telephone and the results will be mailed to you.
What will the Department of Licensing Consider?
During your Department of License Administrative hearing the examiner will consider several details.
Were you under lawful arrest.
Did the officer have reasonable grounds to believe you had been driving or were in physical control of a motor vehicle in the state of Washington while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug,
Were you advised of your rights and warnings.
Did you refuse to submit to a test, or if you did take the test.
Did the test indicate an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more if you were 21 or over or 0.02 if you were under the age of 21.
What to Expect if We Handle the Hearing for you.
When you hire Merrill Law for your DUI, the Attorney will handle the Department of Licensing telephone hearing for you. When the examiner makes a decision, the results of the hearing will be mailed to you.
What to Expect If You Handle the Hearing Yourself.
The telephone hearing examiner will advise you that the testimony will be recorded and that all the testimony provided during the hearing is under oath.
The examiner will review the issues to be decided, and identify the exhibits. Exhibits may include the police report and breathalyzer report.
This is the opportunity to object to the admission of evidence or testimony. If an objection is made, the examiner will determine if it is appropriate to admit the evidence or testimony.
All the witnesses will be sworn in and the examiner will listen to their testimony. At this point you have the opportunity to testify, present evidence, cross-examine any of the state’s witnesses or you may bring your own witnesses to the hearing.
The hearing examiner will adjourn the hearing.
The examiner will review all of the submitted evidence. Then they will make a decision regarding the suspension of your license.
The review process may take the hearing examiner up to 6 weeks from the date of the hearing.
A temporary license will be extended for you that will be valid until the hearing examiner makes the final decision.
The examiner will mail a letter to the address that you have on record to notify you of the decision.
If You Do Not Request an Administrative Hearing.
Your license will only be valid for 30 days from the date of the DUI arrest. Your license will be suspended for 90 days or more.
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
You can have an Ignition Interlock Device installed in your personal vehicle. You can apply for an Ignition Interlock Employer Exemption. This will allow you to continue to drive for work after you have been accused of a DUI.
If the Court or the Department of License (DOL) has ordered you to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your personal vehicle, there is an exemption available for you to drive employer owned vehicles. The vehicle must be owned, leased, rented or be the temporary responsibility of your employer.
To be eligible to apply for the Employer Declaration for Ignition Interlock Exemption you need to:
Have an Ignition Interlock installed on your personal vehicle.
Complete the employee section of the form.
Have your employer complete their portion of the form.
Send a copy of the completed form to the Department of License
You need to carry a copy of the form when you are driving the company vehicle.
You can find the Employer Declaration for the Exemption for the Ignition Interlock requirement at dol.wa.gov or you may Click Hereto follow the link to the Department of License form.
Important Details To Be Aware Of.
The Exemption will only apply to a vehicle that your employer has directed you to drive. It will not apply to any vehicles that you are driving for your personal commute to and from work.
Feel free to call us with any questions or to ask for help to complete the form.
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
What you need to know about Bail is that when you are charged with a Crime, the Judge will set conditions for your release.
These may include that you appear at future court hearings, do not get charged with another crime, as well as an assortment of other limitations.
To help ensure that you are inclined to follow the directions, they will often set an amount of money that you need to pay the court for your release. This is called Bail.
There are two ways that you can make your bail payment.
You can pay the entire amount to the Court. All of your bail money returned to you if you complete all the conditions and attend all of the hearings as required.
You can pay a fee of 10 percent of the total bail amount to a Bail Bonds company. At the completion of your case, your collateral will be returned. The bail bonds company will keep the fee.
What you need to know about Bail to get your money back.
Be aware that if you do not appear at your court hearings, or meet all of your conditions, you will forfeit your Bail money.
We know that this can be a life changing event but it isn’t the end of the world.
There are many ways an experienced attorney can fight for you.
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
Call us now
To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.
